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Spotlight on DOT Agricultural Exemptions
The federal safety regulations contain several agriculture-related exemptions. We explore each of them in this article.
Brandon Wiseman
Nov 30, 20208 min read
6,297 views


Who needs a CDL? A primer on commercial drivers' licenses.
Drivers of certain types of commercial vehicles need a commercial driver's license to operate them. We address the specifics of CDLs...
Brandon Wiseman
Nov 19, 20205 min read
301 views


When is a DOT post-accident drug and alcohol test required?
In this article, we'll explore the specific circumstances that implicate the federal drug/alcohol post-accident testing requirements for...
Brandon Wiseman
Nov 12, 20205 min read
9,590 views


What you should know about personal conveyance
Personal conveyance is one of the more amorphous concepts in commercial trucking. Here's what you should know about the topic.
Brandon Wiseman
Nov 5, 20208 min read
1,357 views


5 tips for a successful DataQs appeal
DataQs, when used correctly, are great tools to help motor carriers improve their CSA scores. Here are 5 steps for filing a successful DataQ
Brandon Wiseman
Nov 2, 20207 min read
2,412 views


What is a CMV and why does it matter?
Perhaps more so than any other term, the term CMV carriers a special significance in commercial transportation. We'll explore why...
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 30, 20205 min read
1,578 views


What is a DOT-recordable accident?
Accidents are an unfortunate reality in commercial transportation. But certain types of accidents carry specific regulatory obligations.
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 28, 20208 min read
18,352 views


How are CSA scores calculated?
CSA scores are used, in part, to prioritize carriers for enforcement action. But how are they calculated? We'll explore the methodology...
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 27, 20208 min read
10,268 views


What is a DQ file and what must it include?
Motor carriers are required to create and maintain DQ—or driver qualification—files on all drivers who operate commercial vehicles for them
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 27, 20208 min read
6,216 views


Who's exempt from the ELD requirement?
Certain drivers and operations are exempt from the FMCSA's electronic logging device mandate. We explore the various exemptions.
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 26, 20204 min read
186 views


DOT short-haul exemption explained
Commercial drivers who qualify for the short-haul exemption are relieved of some, but not all, regulatory requirements.
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 14, 20206 min read
33,235 views


Upgrading your DOT safety rating
A step-by-step guide to upgrading a Conditional or Unsatisfactory DOT safety rating.
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 9, 202010 min read
3,105 views

What is the FMCSA's Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse?
The Clearinghouse is a central repository administered by the FMCSA for drug & alcohol testing violation data on all commercial drivers.
Brandon Wiseman
Oct 7, 20206 min read
367 views


Hours-of-service rule changes go into effect, despite federal court challenge
Despite efforts by safety advocates to derail it, the FMCSA's final rule on hours-of-service changes goes into effect today, September 29th.
Brandon Wiseman
Sep 29, 20202 min read
39 views


FMCSA proposes under-21 commercial driver pilot program
FMCSA proposes pilot program to allow 18-20 year old drivers to operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce under certain conditions.
Brandon Wiseman
Sep 15, 20202 min read
17 views


FMCSA proposes pilot program to test 14-hour pause
FMCSA to conduct pilot program to allow certain drivers to pause their 14-hour driving window with an off-duty break once per day.
Brandon Wiseman
Sep 1, 20203 min read
15 views


Protecting your DOT safety rating
A comprehensive guide to DOT safety ratings, including how to check, improve, and protect your rating.
Brandon Wiseman
Aug 31, 20207 min read
1,833 views


How to pass an FMCSA new entrant audit
An in-depth discussion of what it takes to pass an FMCSA new entrant audit to keep your USDOT number and operating authority.
Brandon Wiseman
Aug 28, 20206 min read
308 views

What is a DOT license?
An in-depth look at the various federal and state motor carrier registrations, permits, and authorities that some consider "DOT licenses"
Brandon Wiseman
Aug 22, 20204 min read
152 views


5 surefire ways to improve your SMS scores
Tips for improving your SMS scores and minimizing your chances of an audit or fines.
Brandon Wiseman
Aug 20, 20203 min read
1,393 views
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